I am not as concerned with a good racing pedal as you guys are at this point. I don't anticipate getting much mud in my pedals during the Iowa summer on the roads and gravel.
I have only used clipless once on my friend's bike so I don't have much experience with them. Is there a hybrid pedal (clipless one side, caged on the other) or comfortable clipless I could use for daily use that wouldn't ruin me starting off in cyclocross. Most of the "hybrid" pedals look cheap and heavy while I'm a little concerned on how an eggbeater pedal would be for daily commute and training rides. Are these concerns justified? I wouldn't be opposed to upgrade or buy another pair of cyclocross pedals if I really get into racing. Right now I just need a summer training/commuting pedal.